All you need to know in 60 seconds about the world's most remarkable places.
This week: Laguna Verde, Bolivia.

At the southernmost tip of Bolivia, close to the border with Chile and Argentina.

Why is it special?

Southwest Bolivia contains some of the world's wildest and most spectacular landscapes, including the Laguna Verde, backed by the dormant 19,555ft Licancábur volcano. It is one of several striking coloured lakes, including the Laguna Colorada, where the fiery red waters and arctic-white shores (a result of salt and borax deposits) contrast with the colour of the lake's three species of breeding flamingos. You can climb the volcano or join a tour of the lakes and other landscapes (see below), including the vast and equally celebrated salt pans to the north.

Nasa used the upper reaches of Licancábur for experiments to prepare for future missions to Mars. Butch Cassidy, and the Sundance Kid are buried in the cemetery of a local village, San Vicente, though the precise grave is unknown, despite exhumations in 1991.

Take me there

The main town in the region, and the base for excursions, is the remote Uyuni, accessible by bus and train, but not (yet) by air. If you are travelling independently, talk to fellow visitors about local tour companies, as many are third-rate.

What about a package?

Because of the remoteness of the region, it can pay to go through a UK tour operator. Sunvil (020 8568 4499; www.sunvil.co.uk) includes a visit to the Laguna Verde on its 10-night Bolivia itinerary, from £2,442 person, including return flight, private transfers, excursions and meals.